Tuwei raises concern over poor facilities

Athletics Kenya president Jackson Tuwei has raised concern over lack of sporting facilities in various counties across the country while calling on the government to facilitate them to help nurture talent.

Tuwei asked the two levels of government to work together and ensure there are athletics facilities at every village in all 47 counties in Kenya so that the sport can be taken to the next level.

“If athletes do not get good facilities, there’s no way they will improve in their careers. We appeal to the county and national governments and other stakeholders to work together and ensure we establish facilities such as stadiums of international standards and other equipment,” said Tuwei.

He revealed that only four stadiums in Kenya have a tartan track—that is Nyayo, Kasarani, Kipchoge Keino and a new one being constructed in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County—which is not enough yet the government promised five stadiums of international standards when it took over five years ago.

Tuwei also lashed at the state for not keeping its promise of rewarding athletes who excel in various events across the globe. “The government promised Sh1million, Sh750,000 and Sh500,000 to athletes who clinch gold, silver and bronze medals respectively while representing the country in various athletic events but nothing has happened yet. The list is growing and we are appealing to them to fast-track this,” added Tuwei.